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Garbage Loader Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

City of Marietta, GA

Route Driver

Marietta, GA · On-site

Ability to lift and carry garbage/trash/brush loads weighing approximately 35 to 100 pounds several times daily. * Must be able to read, write, and speak English clearly and understand verbal ...

The city of Marietta

Route Driver

Marietta, GA · On-site

$18.80 - $21.44/hr

Ability to lift and carry garbage/trash/brush loads weighing approximately 35 to 100 pounds several times daily. * Must be able to read, write, and speak English clearly and understand verbal ...

Waste Pro

Experienced Front Load Driver

Athens, GA · On-site

The Front Load Driver operates refuse collection vehicles on pre-assigned and special routes to pick up garbage. Performs pre-trip and post-trip truck check and cleaning; and performs other related ...

Waste Pro

Experienced Front Load Driver

Athens, GA · On-site

The Front Load Driver operates refuse collection vehicles on pre-assigned and special routes to pick up garbage. Performs pre-trip and post-trip truck check and cleaning; and performs other related ...

Waste Pro

Residential Helper

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$15.25 - $17.25/hr

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: 1. Picks up solid waste and places it in the back of a rear load garbage truck on specified routes often done manually or by pushing toter to tipper. Lifts and carries trash ...

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Garbage Loader information

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$9

$16

$23

How much do garbage loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage loader in Georgia is $16.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a garbage loader do?

A garbage loader, also known as a sanitation worker or refuse collector, is responsible for collecting and loading waste materials onto garbage trucks for disposal. They typically work in teams to pick up trash, recyclables, and yard waste from residential, commercial, and public areas. Their work helps ensure communities remain clean and free of waste, and they often follow specific routes and safety procedures. Garbage loaders may also assist with sorting recyclables and handling bulky items. The job requires physical strength, attention to safety, and the ability to work in various weather conditions.

How much does a garbage helper make?

Garbage helpers typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer. The role often requires physical stamina and the ability to operate waste collection equipment, with some positions offering benefits and overtime pay.

Can a garbage man make 100k?

Garbage loaders, also known as sanitation workers, typically earn salaries below $100,000 annually. However, with overtime, union benefits, experience, and working in high-cost areas, some may reach or exceed this level, especially in supervisory or specialized roles. Most entry-level positions start with lower wages, and reaching six figures usually requires additional responsibilities or years of experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Garbage Loader, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Garbage Loader, you need physical stamina, attention to safety, and the ability to follow instructions, typically requiring a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with waste collection vehicles, hydraulic lifts, and basic safety equipment is common in this role. Teamwork, reliability, and a strong work ethic are crucial soft skills for succeeding in demanding and often outdoor conditions. These skills ensure efficient waste collection, prevent injuries, and contribute to public health and cleanliness.

What are the typical physical demands and safety practices involved in working as a Garbage Loader?

Garbage Loaders routinely engage in physically demanding tasks such as lifting heavy bags, maneuvering bins, and working in various weather conditions. Safety is paramount, so workers are trained to use proper lifting techniques, wear protective gear like gloves and reflective vests, and follow specific procedures to avoid injuries from sharp objects or hazardous materials. The role often requires early morning starts and close collaboration with drivers and other crew members to ensure efficient and safe waste collection. Adhering to safety protocols and being prepared for physical challenges are key to success in this position.

What is the difference between Garbage Loader vs Waste Collector?

AspectGarbage LoaderWaste Collector
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, valid driver’s licenseHigh school diploma or equivalent, valid driver’s license
Work EnvironmentResidential and commercial areas, operating trucksResidential neighborhoods, waste collection routes
Industry UsageMunicipal waste management, private waste servicesMunicipal waste management, private waste services

Garbage Loaders and Waste Collectors often perform similar roles in waste management, operating trucks to collect and dispose of waste. The main difference lies in terminology; 'Garbage Loader' is commonly used in specific regions or companies, while 'Waste Collector' is a broader term. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments, focusing on residential and commercial waste collection within municipal or private sectors.

Is garbage collecting a good job?

Garbage collection jobs, such as waste loaders or sanitation workers, are essential for public health and environmental management. They often involve physical labor, working outdoors, and may require safety training and protective gear; pay and job stability vary by location and employer.

What jobs pay 250 an hour?

Garbage loaders typically do not earn $250 an hour; such high wages are uncommon in this role. Jobs that pay $250 an hour usually require specialized skills, advanced certifications, or executive positions, such as surgeons, anesthesiologists, or specialized consultants. These roles often involve significant experience and education.
What are popular job titles related to Garbage Loader jobs in Georgia? For Garbage Loader jobs in Georgia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Garbage Loader jobs in Georgia look for? The top searched job categories for Garbage Loader jobs in Georgia are:
Garbage Loader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Loader job openings in Georgia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,778 per year, or $16.7 per hour.
2026 City Service Worker, Sanitation

2026 City Service Worker, Sanitation

The city of Marietta

Marietta, GA • On-site

$17 - $19.41/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Rate of Pay: $17.00 - $19.41
Status: Open Until Filled
This is a second tier, skilled position within the Sanitation division. This position works daily from the back of a garbage collection truck that is responsible for collecting all garbage, trash and brush, throughout the city. This position can be utilized as a replacement driver on routes, as needed. This position requires the employee to be in excellent physical condition and capable of keeping pace with the route crew, while performing repetitive and manual lifting, carrying and loading garbage cans. This position is also required, when acting as a replacement driver, to possess all the required skills, abilities, and job requirements necessary to safely operate a garbage truck.
  • Works as a crew member with an assigned Route Driver on an assigned residential route. Responds to work reassignments from supervisory staff as assigned.
  • Rides on the back of garbage compactor truck in residential areas and performs garbage, trash or brush collection from behind houses or curbside and dumps refuse into the collection trucks.
  • Operates as a replacement driver as needed or required.
  • Assists the Route Driver in unloading refuse at county landfill.
  • Washes and cleans truck daily. Assists Route Driver in performing preventative maintenance inspections on truck. Reports any equipment problems to the Route Driver.
  • Notifies supervisor of any customer requests or complaints.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Must have and maintain a valid Georgia "Class B" CDL at time of hire and a satisfactory seven-year driving history to include no DUIs in the last 5 (five) years.
  • Minimum of1-year recent experience performing heavy manual labor. Outdoor and heavy manual labor work experience is highly desired.
  • Must be in excellent physical condition and ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination, drug screen and criminal background check at time of hire.
  • Ability to lift and carry garbage/trash/brush loads weighing approximately 35 to 70 pounds several times daily.
  • Skill and ability to drive and operate a garbage truck safely in all types of traffic and weather conditions and ensure the safety of the other employees who ride on the back of the truck when acting as a replacement driver.
  • Must be able to speak clearly and understand verbal instructions.
  • When acting as a replacement driver, must have the ability to operate the garbage packer on rear of truck and to use simple hand tools. Must have the ability to monitor crew activities and make adjustments to ensure compliance with work quality and safety policies; and adjust the pace of the route truck as appropriate to ensure work quality and safety.
  • Ability to fill out a daily route summary sheet, write charge tickets, and violation notices to customers.
  • Ability to communicate courteously with other employees and customers.

Disclaimer
Successful candidates are required to submit to drug screen & background inquiry.

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